Introduction

In this recipe the roasted aubergines are marinated post­ cooking in a dressing packed with lemon and chilli. A generous topping of marinated mozzarella adds both flavour and texture, making this the perfect addition to a vegetarian sharing feast. For a balanced meal, serve with a side of bulgur wheat.

Serves 4

Easy

Prep time: 15 min

Cook time: 40 min

Total time: 55 min

Ingredients

2

large aubergines

sea salt

3 - 4 tbsp

olive oil

6 tbsp

extra virgin olive oil

2

lemons, zest and juice

1 medium bunch

of fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped

1

red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped

250g

buffalo mozzarella, torn roughly into chunks

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C fan/200°C/ gas 6. Cut the tops off the aubergines and slice them lengthways in half, then cut each half lengthways into long quarters. Place the slices in a large roasting tin in a single layer, add a generous scattering of sea salt and drizzle with the olive oil. Mix well with your hands to evenly coat the slices in the oil and salt, then pop into the oven and roast for 40 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest and juice, flat­ leaf parsley and chilli. Season to taste with sea salt, then tip a few tablespoons of the dressing over the torn mozzarella while the aubergines are cooking.

3. As soon as the aubergines are cooked, tip the remaining dressing over them and turn them over gently until thoroughly coated. Allow them to sit in the dressing for 5 minutes, then tip over the marinated mozzarella and serve warm.

This recipe is featured in

In this best-selling book, food stylist and writer Rukmini Iyer shares 75 indispensable recipes that can be cooked with ease in a roasting tin. It's the perfect book for new or busy cooks who want to enjoy food that's packed with flavour.